These recommendations are general in nature and any special instructions that your Doctor or Ocularist gives should take precedence.

How long will the Prosthesis last?At some time in the future your prosthesis will need to be changed, but how often depends on a number of factors. The life of the prosthesis depends on the physical changes that occur within the socket as well as how well you take care of your artificial eye. The slow atrophy of tissue and fat from within the socket can require the periodic re-fitting or replacement of the prosthesis. Generally speaking, most prostheses will last from 5-7 years. You can help to extend the life of your  artificial eye by having it professionally polished twice a year. Children should have their prosthesis checked more frequently; every 3-6 months.

How often should the Prosthesis be removed? Remember that the routine removal of the prosthesis at night is not recommended unless you are having problems. Your artificial eye is designed to be worn day and night and should be handled as little as possible. Try to wear the prosthesis as long as it is not irritating and as long as it does not have any material stuck to its surface. After some time and experience you may be able to anticipate discomfort. At that time you can remove the eye and clean it before it begins to cause problems.

Insertion and Removal First scrub your hands and fingertips well. INSERTION: Wet the eye with saline solution. With adequate lighting, hold the prosthesis in one hand being sure that the top of the prosthesis in in the correct position. The prosthesis may have a mark on it to indicate the top. Gently lift the upper lid with your free hand and tuck the upper edge of the prosthesis under the upper lid. Now gently push it up and in. When the prosthesis is under the upper lid pull up on the lower lid, over the bottom of the prosthesis. REMOVAL: Tilt your head downward while looking up and pull down on the lower lid. At the same time, gently push your fingertip under the lower edge of the prosthesis so that the lower edge of the prosthesis slides out and down. Position one hand close to your cheek to catch the prosthesis as it drops out. The insertion and removal can also be accomplished with a suction cup. Instructions on use and suction cups are available from your Ocularist.

How to Clean the Prosthesis You will determine from your own wearing experience what the best interval for cleaning the prosthesis is. Wash your hands and fingertips thoroughly and then remove the prosthesis with your hands or with a suction cup. Examine the prosthesis under a bright light and look for any residual matter that may be stuck to the surface of the prosthesis. You can apply a small amount of baby shampoo to a soft and wet washcloth or paper towel. With your fingertips, gently scrub the surface of the eye with the soapy towel. Rinse all soap from the prosthesis and re-examine under a bright light before inserting it wet. You can use saline solution or a hard contact conditioning solution to wet the prosthesis.